Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches are a tasty treat that’s super easy to make! You just throw chicken in the slow cooker with sweet pineapple and tangy barbecue sauce, and let it cook all day.
The best part? When it’s done, you get to pile it all on soft buns and enjoy a sweet, sticky sandwich that’s perfect for any day. I love making these for game night—everyone always wants seconds! 🌺🌴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for shredding. You can also use thighs if you prefer a richer flavor or if they’re on sale! If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a good shortcut.
Pineapple Juice: This adds sweetness and a tropical twist. If you’re out, you could use orange juice or even apple juice, but the flavor will change a bit.
BBQ Sauce: A sweet variety complements the dish well. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use a homemade BBQ sauce or a low-sugar brand. You can also use teriyaki sauce for a different flavor.
Coleslaw Mix: This mix is easy and convenient. If you want to make it healthier, you could opt for shredded broccoli slaw or even chop some lettuce and carrots instead.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo is great here, but Greek yogurt is a tasty and healthier substitute for the coleslaw dressing if you want to lighten things up.
How Do I Get Tender, Shredded Chicken?
Getting perfectly tender, shredded chicken is key to this recipe. Follow these steps to ensure your chicken turns out just right:
- Start with fresh or thawed chicken for even cooking.
- Cooking on low for 6-8 hours is best, but if you’re short on time, use high for 3-4 hours.
- Check for doneness by ensuring it easily shreds with two forks. If it feels tough, give it a little more time.
- After shredding, return the chicken to the sauce in the Crock Pot. This keeps it moist and flavorful.
How to Make Crock Pot Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (preferably a sweet variety)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Coleslaw:
- 2 cups coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
For Serving:
- 6 hamburger buns
- Pringles or potato chips, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for prep and 6-8 hours of cooking time in the Crock Pot (or 3-4 hours on high). You’ll spend a little time mixing the ingredients and then simply let the Crock Pot do the work. It’s a great set-it-and-forget-it meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your Crock Pot. This will be the base for all the delicious flavors to soak in.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the pineapple juice, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, and brown sugar. Stir everything together until well mixed, then pour this tasty mixture over the chicken in the Crock Pot. Yum!
3. Season and Cook:
Sprinkle the chicken with a bit of salt and pepper for added flavor. Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s tender and easily shredded with a fork.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the Crock Pot and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir it into the sauce, so it’s nice and coated.
5. Make the Coleslaw:
In a mixing bowl, prepare your coleslaw. Combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar (if you like it a bit sweeter). Toss everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches:
To put it all together, grab your hamburger buns. Place a generous scoop of the Hawaiian chicken on the bottom half of each bun, then top it with a scoop of coleslaw. Close the sandwich with the top half of the bun.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your delicious sandwiches right away! You can serve them with a side of Pringles or potato chips if you’d like a bit of crunch. Enjoy your Hawaiian getaway!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Cook on high for 4-5 hours to ensure it’s fully cooked and tender. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety!
What BBQ Sauce Should I Use?
For a sweet and tropical flavor, go for a barbecue sauce that has hints of honey or brown sugar. If you like it spicier, consider a sauce with chipotle or cayenne for an extra kick. Feel free to experiment based on your taste preference!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the shredded chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Add Extra Veggies to the Coleslaw?
Absolutely! Adding shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, or even diced apples can enhance the coleslaw’s crunch and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the mayonnaise and vinegar to keep the dressing balanced!
